RISE Of The Planet Of The Apes takes advantage of the latest technological wizardry to deliver a thrilling action adventure that doesn’t skimp on heartbreaking emotion.

Director Rupert Wyatt orchestrates some breathtaking set pieces, including a climactic scene of apes on the rampage in San Francisco that unfolds at dizzying speed, seamlessly melding digital and live action elements.

However, beneath the pyrotechnics, there beats a human heart, not least in the character of Caesar the ape, brought to life by actor Andy Serkis using the same technology as Gollum in The Lord Of The Rings.

Scientist Will Rodman (James Franco) is determined to find a cure for the Alzheimer’s which has consumed his father (John Lithgow).

Will feels certain he is close to a breakthrough and tests his latest serum on chimpanzees, noticing dramatic increases in intelligence and brain activity.

However, a high profile showcase with shareholders goes spectacularly wrong and Will’s boss demands the project is shut down and the animals slaughtered.

Will smuggles a baby chimp called Caesar out of the lab and raises the infant with his father.

As the years pass, Will falls in love with vet Caroline Aranha (Freida Pinto) who is stunned by his ability to communicate with the chimpanzee, but warns him meddling with nature has repercussions.

Scenes between Franco and Lithgow are beautifully judged and the interaction between the two men and the digitally rendered Caesar is surprisingly moving.

Pinto’s role acts as the voice of reason, though her warnings are never heeded.